Property Description

Welcome to THE
HISTORIC BALCH RETREAT on HOOD CANAL showcasing unobstructed,
sweeping Hood Canal and Mt Rainier views that are continually
evolving. Relax and enjoy historic simple elegance and ambiance,
coupled with fascinating wildlife - our own little version of Animal
Planet. This includes our resident Hummingbirds that visit our
balcony most of the year. Experience Puget Sound's only Nationally
Registered, historic, beach vacation rental on over 1,000 ft of
shellfish rich beach, surrounded by Olympic Natl Park/Forest, part of
the Dosewallips Wildlife Estuary on Hood Canal. One of a small handful
of historic waterfront vacation homes available in the entire Pacific
NW, yet in close proximity to Seattle and Tacoma. For an even better
sense of what you'll experience see HistoricParadise.com.

Step back to a simpler time, and experience a unique combination
showcasing history, wildlife, Olympic Nat’l Park, Hood Canal,
and the best of the Pacific NW in nature’s paradise.

Reviews

Average Rank 5 Stars from 6 Renter Reviews

June 19th, 2011

Absolutely Breathtaking

I had the wonderful experience of staying at the Balch Retreat House on Hood Canal the week of June 19, 2011. I was so impressed by the attention to detail with every aspect of this absolutely beautiful vacation home. I was first struck by the beauty of the landscaping with the gardens, grounds, the hanging flowers and an abundance of beautiful flowers & plants. The brick walkways and the wonderful fire pit area, all done with such care. The home itself is truly a step back into history with just the right amount of updating to make staying there a huge treat. The decor, the furnishings, the color choices for every room, was thoughtfully and beautifully well done! The place was perfectly stocked with everything we could possibly need, and was absolutely spotless as well which I appreciated so much. Then there is the wildlife!!! ...you just can't fully describe with words the amazing display that is different and unique each day. With tide out and tide in this beautiful fjord and estuary take on a different look each time. We were greeted every single morning by countless seals peeking at us and performing their swimming shows. The otters would be there as well enjoying the oysters and playing in the water. The birds for me were just a huge blessing. There was a non-stop show of bald eagles, hawks, blue heron, hummingbirds, robins, wren, swallows, and both red & yellow finches. I really was amazed at the number of hummingbirds, and swallows. One evening we were on the deck enjoying dinner and watching "the show" when a beautiful double rainbow appeared over the water, I thought my heart would explode. The combination of the beauty of the Balch House, the grounds, and the breathtaking display of magnificent nature at it's best was exactly what I needed. I'm so thankful for the gift that is The Balch Retreat.

June 17th, 2011

Girls Getaway Weekend

From the moment we arrived Friday night until we departed Sunday morning our stay was just what we needed: relaxing, fun and memorable. We were met by sweet scent of the hanging baskets and beautiful flower gardens. Blessed with a low tide we gathered oysters from the beach and enjoyed them from the grill on the lower deck. At the fire pit we enjoyed not only the fire but yummy smores. The views from all three levels were truly incredible! It was almost as though the sea otters, seals and bald eagles were hired to give us a show. The interior was clean, comfortable and had old world charm with modern amenities andd the beds gave a great night's sleep, also. We would whole heartly recommend the Balch Waterfront Retreat for any occasion.

Wonderful Family getaway

My husband found this wonderful historic home on the internet and we know immediately we had to give it a try. It was wonderful! Terrific views from every room, cozy beds, well stcked kitchen, great tub and lots of hot cocoa. My husband, mother-in-law, 4 children and I enjoyed drinking hot cocoa watching the sunrise. Wonderful memories were made and will never be forgotten!

Enjoyable Get-Away

We spent this last weekend in Brinnon, and had a wonderful time. The house is very well decorated, and has all the amenities needed for an out of town trip. We made meals in the kitchen, played board games, watched videos, sat on the deck and watched the eagles, elk and birds. An extremely relaxing and enjoyable time.

Enjoying a Forgotten Era

My wife and I enjoyed the historical aspect of this house. It was nice, and I think more relaxing, to get away from modern concrete style condo vacation rentals. It brought back the feeling of a slower paced time from the past. We probably enjoyed the wildlife more than anything. Because a fresh water river flows into the salt water of Hood Canal directly in front of the house, wildlife is more abundant in this area, the principle ones being sea otters and bald eagles. We used this property as a home base for sightseeing in the area. Main attractions were the town of Port Townsend with its Victorian homes and the small villages up and down Hood Canal with all of their tourist shops and seafood outlets. Sitting on the outdoor decks was especially enjoyable while watching the the boats cruise in and out of the nearby marina. Even though we didn't, the lower deck is large enough to entertain a fairly good sized group of people. The neighbors' homes are not right on your "doorstep", which is nice for privacy. The house was very clean and comfortable. The furniture is of the style that fits the era that the house was built in and the beds have heavy quilts, just like the "old days". Even though the kitchen is still the style originally used in the house, it has been updated with all of the modern appliances we are accustomed to. All in all, this rental home was a nice change of pace bringing back the feeling of a forgotten era. Unless a person wants to vacation at a totally modern day residence, I would recommend the "Balch" house for a unique vacationing experience.

Balch historic 1910 home in Brinnon

We had an incredible visit. The wildlife was incredible as were the views and amenities. So close to local dining and great hikes. All we can say is WOW and hope to visit again.
Thank you for a wonderful birthday and anniversary memory.
Denise and Randy Colerick

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